About Me...The Nitty Gritty

Hi! I'm Eva, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, wife, mother, writer, singer, photographer, dancer and survivor of depression and anxiety. For nearly a decade I periodically had months where it was all I could do to avoid hurting myself or abandoning my family. I even planned ending my life multiple times. Now those feelings are just memories. I am off all medication and living a happy, fulfilling life. I have my low moments every day but I do my best to be proactive and see the good life has to offer. I choose NOT to usually capture those moments with my camera because I've seen where dwelling on the negative has taken me. Plus, I know 50 years from now I will only remember the "good old times" anyway. So I do my best to see those good moments now. I share hope through song-writing, story-telling and by writing.I by no means have a perfect life, but by focusing on the positive I hope to never regress into that dark tunnel of depression again. I also believe that the greatest good that can come from the trials my family faced due to my illness, is helping others get through similar challenges. None of us is ever alone when we open up to each other. "Uplifting Eva" is about uplifting both myself and anyone who journeys with me. Please check out the Topics menu on the sidebar for posts that may especially relate to you. If you would like to get to know me even better and see more of my pictures, feel free to check out my other blogs! I also homeschool and love documenting that adventure! For crafts and other educational fun...www.happinessishomeschooling.blogspot.com

Keeping my depression in check and keeping up with my kids has only been possible through trying to live a healthier life. I have struggled with body image issues for a long time and even battled an eating disorder for a time. Documenting the nutritious choices I make and healthy weight-loss efforts helps me stay on track. You can read about that journey here...http://www.veggiefitmama.blogspot.com It's been really rewarding to encourage others on a quest for better health.
And for other random family fun from trips, holidays or even just-the-mundane-but-still-wonderful-everyday-life visit... www.adventuresofchevaandcompany.blogspot.comI love taking family portraits and have been busy at it for the past 3 years. You can see my work, client reviews and modest pricing at www.evabarnettphotography.blogspot.com.

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and make it a priority (as hard as it is sometimes!) to creatively teach my kids the Gospel. For ideas on teaching your children about Christ Like my Facebook page LDS Little Ones and check out my blog... www.ldslittleones.blogspot.com

I love having readers, sharing parenting ideas and struggles, and the support that's out there when we learn from each other! Thank you again for visiting! Come back often! Follow, share and comment! Let's learn to enjoy this journey together...